Mathematics with Ocean and Climate Sciences BSc (Hons)

Predicting climate and climate change is a major challenge facing the scientific community.

The oceans regulate the climate of the planet through storing and transporting heat as well as modifying properties of the overlying atmosphere. Complex issues such as climate change and sea level rise can only be understood if the role of the ocean and atmosphere is fully appreciated.

This degree provides an understanding of how the ocean and atmosphere operate in the climate system, as well as offering a strong grounding in mathematics. It is offered in collaboration between the Department of Mathematics in the School of Physical Sciences and the internationally renowned National Oceanography Centre in Liverpool, providing excellent preparation for careers in computer modelling in oceanography, meteorology or environmental monitoring.

Programme in detail

You will acquire a broad knowledge of mathematics and the analytical and numerical techniques for solving problems, and the ability to apply those techniques with confidence. You will gain an understanding of how the climate system behaves, how the atmosphere and ocean transport heat, why jets and eddies emerge on a rotating planet, how tracers are transported and mixed, and how these processes affect the growth of phytoplankton.

The degree in Mathematics with Ocean and Climate Sciences at Liverpool is accredited by the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology.

Why this subject?

Be part of a group whose world-leading research is helping to tackle today’s greatest environmental challenges

Our multidisciplinary research is helping organisations such as the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change and the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea to develop sustainable management plans.

Bring your studies to life with laboratory and field teaching

Fieldwork for our Oceans Sciences degree programmes takes place in local coastal waters and elsewhere in the UK (for example we currently run field classes in North Wales and off the west coast of Scotland). Time spent in laboratory and in the field varies considerably depending on which program you are registered on. We consider applications from prospective students with disabilities on the same basis as all other students, and reasonable adjustments will be considered to address barriers to access.

Benefit from our excellent facilities and partnerships

Our unique partnership with the Marine Biological Association allows us access to their specialist staff, laboratories and research vessel. We also have close links with the National Oceanography Centre (NOC), based in Liverpool and access to custom-built remotely operated underwater vehicles (ROVs), and the award-winning Central Teaching Laboratories (CTL).

Be inspired by our culture of research excellence in a friendly environment

Project work, carried out within the research groups, will allow you to use research equipment and the latest techniques.

Apply for summer internships and placements

A number of paid summer internships are offered, working alongside an academic in the University, at the NOC or elsewhere. These present a great opportunity to develop data analysis and modelling skills that will help you achieve your future employment or study ambitions.